Stories

Our latest rider interview takes us into the pro peloton, with a rider who hails from Bassano del Grappa. Pro since 2011, Andrea Pasqualon currently rides with the Belgian team Wanty–Groupe Gobert. After strong results in the early season classics, we spoke to Andrea ahead of the Tour of Flanders.

Palu: How did you get into racing?

Andrea: I really wanted it. I’ve loved cycling since I was little, but I used it for keeping a good fitness during summer time while competing in winter Alpine skiing. The passion comes from my uncles who competed at fairly good Under 25 level. It’s thanks to them I was put on the saddle, but I also believe that my self-belief helped me to reach where I am now.

Palu: When did you realise that professional cycling could become your full time job?

Andrea: I realised that I would become a professional when I won Trofeo Piva (Col San Martino). It was 2010 and my team coach Gianni Faresin (former winner of Giro di Lombardia) said “do you realise that you just won one of the most important races of the season.. which means you’ve just put yourself in the frame for a pro team contract?” That was the day I knew I would become a pro rider!

Palu: Who is your sporting hero?

Andrea: Funnily enough, my biggest inspiring person does not relate to cycling, but my “ex” sport… he’s Alberto Tomba. I would compare him with Peter Sagan.. a bubbly person always with the right humour, not seriously methodical and precise. I like his style because he never don't takes it too seriously as some other riders in order to achieve results. They are full of charisma and I love to inspire myself from these aspects.

Palu: What are your 2018 season goals?

Andrea: I’m looking for an important result at the North Classics this 2018. Ideally at Tour of Flanders or Amstel Gold Race which are very suitable for my best riding style and strength. I will focus at achieving a good Tour de France stage result on fast or rolling course. Basically something that really counts for this ‘world of the pedal’!

Palu: Do you have any rituals when you race?

Andrea: I have a fairly big faith in God so 4-5 minutes of praying and thanking him for gifting me the life is something I usually do.. doesn’t take long and it’s a privilege to be lucky and able to enjoy it.

Palu: What’s your opinion about competing on disc bikes?

Andrea: To be honest I support the disc brake concept as long as every single rider uses it. I don't find it fair that half the peloton can have one type of performance and the other half cannot. This is something that spectators don’t notice but there is a timing difference between the two concepts.